Hollywood director/writer/producer. Rabble rouser and All American Uppity Woman. See my feature film THE COMMUNE at Netflix, Amazon, and iTunes.

Thursday, April 14, 2005

Whoo-hoo!

Got my tickets!!!! Had a little scare because the tickets didn't go on sale until 10:20 (Wassup, ticketmaster?). But I'm set.

Got ripped a new a-hole in class last night for my awesome script. For about an hour. Fun fun fun. Turns out the teacher hates comics and sci-fi. Greaaaat. Luckily 4 of my classmates got it and loved it. It's called a niche market, people. That's what I wanted.

3 comments:

I've enjoyed reading your blog. The book sounds like it's very intriguing and a great release. Congrats on the success.

Sorry to hear you've had some negative experiences at ucla. Ripped a new one! Ouch! I do think it's important for both sides of events to be presented, esepecially when some things aren't presented exactly as they're said. I, the professor you mention:-), am on the record as saying "I'm not a fan of science fiction written by students because those scripts are almost always about machines and intergalactic war." I didn't say I "hate sci-fi" nor do I have any opinion about comics (other than I like STRAY BULLETTS). In fact, I'm on the record as mentioning two of my favorites films, which I'd say are sci-fi (ALIEN and GATTACA).

Yes, you got a harsh critique. I think, as I told you in class, it's more important to get honest criticism rather than a blanket "gee, sounds good." It'd be much easier for me to just say, "gee, sounds good." But, I care enough about my students to carefully consider what they're presenting and comment on it accordingly.

I think blogs are a great thing. And yours is full of insightful, entertaining stuff. But I also think you should consider what you're saying before you write it. Or, at least, if you're going to mention people, give all sides of the story.

I look forward to reading more from you. Not only on the blog, but in our class!

Wait, I mispoke!...I did say something about people who read comics and go to the Comicon (i think that's what it's called in San Diego), but I'm fairly certain hate wasn't the word used. If so, I apologize. But, I didn't say I hate comics:-)...

I value you as a person and as a teacher. My blog was not meant as a personal attack, which appears to be how you feel, and for that I am sorry. I can certainly relate. I assure you I mean that sincerely. If you don't read that in what follows, it is the medium, not the message, and I hope we can clear anything up in person.

I wrote about the bad taste in my mouth after class. I did not say you ripped me a new a-hole or mention you by name. I said I was ripped a new a-hole in class, which I was (still not pooping straight), and which was the perception shared by many students who came up to me afterwards to apologize for not sticking up for me. I'm sure anyone who has taken a roundtable writing class can relate.

As you said to our class, I demonstrated the ability to take harsh criticism, not only from you who has admittedly never seen an X-Files episode (for anyone else still reading this, my script topic is the X-Philes fans and creators), but from a green student who did not do the homework assignment and dominated our classroom time rewriting everyone else's scripts.

During my critique, I wrote down everything said to me, and thanked all for the perspectives. You condoned my critique behaviour in class, and I was very pleased with my behaviour and your acknowledgement of it. I felt that was a good exercise for the future, and that I had grown since last fall. Of course, it's not human nature to focus on what was good. I'm sure you've come out of some studio meetings and told your friends more of the bad parts than the good.

However professional an image I mustered at the time, it is my perception that some opinions in the room did not come across professionally or appropriately. I needed to vent about my feelings and my disappointment that that could have been tempered by any number of people in the room, including myself. If we're going to have a productive quarter, there are boundaries that are should be established by us as a group so that we feel comfortable in the room.

You may have to explain in person to me why to watch what I say on my blog, because I don't savvy. It's a blog. I think people get that, and if they don't, that seems silly to me. But I'd like to hear why you think otherwise. You probably have some very good reasons I haven't experienced. If anything I'm more paranoid that my first masters degree in media was from a socialist university. Talk about McCarthism repercussions :)

I stand behind what I have written all year. If you're still worried about how you were quoted about comics and scifi, I am happy to discuss what I heard you say and mean in the appropriate environment, which I don't feel this is. Honestly, if I said it here I fear I'd upset you into a he said/she said thingie, which is not my intention. This blog is really just about me. As a full time, stressed out caretaker, it's the only thing in my life that gets to be about ME. The way it relates to you in my mind is what I said in class: had I known your genre preferences I would have chosen to write the preteen movie for this quarter to get your valuable feedback on that. I am dispappointed that I chose the wrong genre, and am still considering starting over with that preteen script. People have biases because they're human. My only goal is to get the most valuable feedback for my money that I can from a professional in the industry.

I don't need to shove my writing down anyone's throat, which is kind of how I feel now about my niche script. The niche people loooove it, and I don't want to explain or defend it to everyone else. I'm comfortable with a Kaufman/Whedon audience. It's actually my goal for that script. But of course I can also write something for the masses.

I can understand your concern about me discussing my negative experiences at UCLA, but I've also discussed the positive (including some very flattering things about you by name), so that is more telling all sides of stories than most UCLA students have the balls to do (other than David A, god bless ya. And hang in there!).

When I began this blog, I said I am brutally honest about everything in my life. That is the quality Hal has told me he admires in my writing, and I don't want to change that. There is nothing I have said here that I will not say to ANYONE'S face, should they care to listen.

Because UCLA is my alma mater, I have a responsibility to call its performance as I and others see it, just as citizens in this country who love it should be shouting their opinions from the rooftops and not be afraid that they are going to be blacklisted or punished for speaking their minds.

There are students who would delete their entire blog now for fear of who this will now be shown to at UCLA and how they are going to retaliate. It is that fear that keeps the program from growing from truthful commentary about what students are actually experiencing (along with laziness from the title "Best in the Country", which many Trojans take umbrage at). I have no doubt that the administration would be shocked at how many students/customers are upset about the program because an open dialogue has not been fostered. The reality is that in the professional program we are peers and customers who aren't speaking up because of the implied ramifications of watching what we think/say/write about a Hollywood institution that is perceived as having the power to make or break us. That's very sad, because UCLA actually relies on its students' success to continue making it a relevant program to future students. Everybody teaching or being taught loses when that success rate isn't maximized.

When you've been through the hell I have been through and taste what is important in life, you don't let fear or smallness run you. I'll be damned if I'll be silent. I am a powerful, highly educated, experienced customer with much to offer the program. It's not my loss if the program doesn't want it.

See you in class next week. I'm very pleased you are looking forward to reading more of my writing. As I've said on this site, I am excited about having you as my professor, and as I stated in class, I value your opinion. I hope in time you will value mine, and also be open to some harsh criticism. Could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

-Lis

PPS Thanks for the kind words about Mom's Cancer. My brother's book is changing people's lives, which is great inspiration for all writers. Couldn't be prouder.

Press

She's kind of like a mischievous kid and we're the elevator. She's going to push all our buttons and there's nothing we can do about it. Goddard says all you need (to make a movie) is a girl and gun. I say all this woman needs is a typewriter.- Jim Mercurio, Creative Screenwriting Expo 6 intro speech

Thank you for making me laugh out loud at your wit! AGAIN!!!- Neil Kaplan, V.O. actor/filmmaker

"Producer/Writer/Directer Elisabeth Fies and Emmy-Winner David Lago come into the studio and nearly burn the place down as they answer questions about their latest film, THE COMMUNE...... This film is a WILD psychological thriller with a surprise ending that you will NEVER forget!!!! Be sure to see this one!"

Your blog is such a fun read as you post on all things that tickle you, and share any opinions you have on work in the industry. All of it is greatly valued and I love it. - Jennifer Arzt, Program Director, Script Frenzy

"The bastard child of THE WICKER MAN and Greek tragedy, THE COMMUNE is a heady mix of myth and mystery, featuring a young virgin who finds herself isolated in a remote commune of religious "family" members with a sinister agenda to ensure their supernatural survival. Tyro director Lis Fies deftly blends the tragic with the outrageous, painting her feminist motion picture with a bloody, psycho-sexual brush. Haunting imagery and symbolism underscore the horror of entrapment, sacrifice and familial dysfunction as Jenny (Chauntal Lewis) confronts the evil that is her father (Stuart G. Bennett) and his new family. THE COMMUNE is uncomfortable in the best possible way -- igniting revulsion -- but forcing you to keep watching as its sordid tale unfolds."- Bill Cunningham, The Mad Pulp Bastard

"What The Wicker Man remake should have been if it had any balls. A creepy insight into the dangers of religious extremism and the control of female sexuality. Beautiful, haunting, but relatable and terrifying."- Heidi Martinuzzi, Pretty/Scary

"THE COMMUNE recalls the golden age of 1970’s filmmaking with its tawny subversiveness and silken grindhouse texture. Fies works with a dreamy unease and subtle power. The true horror of the piece does not kick in until the final moments, but Fies rewards the patient among us with quirky characterizations, bizarre encounters and intense sexuality."

Much like Lana Turner in 1941’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Chauntal Lewis supplies (a slightly petulant) angelic glow as Jenny. Lewis uncovers the layers of Jenny’s dreamy adolescence and its visible cracks and she is well met by David Lago’s sexy, Goth friendly Puck. The tender eroticism the two elicit is well contrasted by the dark contrivances of co-stars Stuart G. Bennett and Adrian Lee, as Jenny’s forceful father and his quirky commune muse."- Brian Kirst, The Horror Society

"THE COMMUNE takes hold of you in the first few minutes with its jaw-dropping opening and then refuses to let yougo. Chauntal Lewis has definitely made a fan out of me with her strong yet vulnerable performance. This movie does notdisappoint for any horror fans who are looking for an entertaining plot, engaging style and a good scare. I expect to see much more from Lis Fies after this one."- Brea Grant, actor HEROES, HALLOWEEN 2 (and comic writer!)

Mother effin' PISTOLERAS

First Place in CREATIVE SCREENWRITING MAGAZINE's screenwriting contest; Thriller CategorySecond Place in FADE IN MAGAZINE's screenwriting contest; Action Category:

This is not another teen movie. PISTOLERAS delivers a knockout female empowerment message--its heroines make Charlie's Angels look like the Girl Scouts."-Erin Torneo, co-author, The Bridal Wave

Lis is Gorgeous. And can write the shit out of a script!-Brian Lubocki, screenwriter/troublemaker

You are a brilliant writer. Keep at it.- Hal Ackerman, co-chair UCLA screenwriting

You are an outstanding writer. You have an innate ability to tap into real emotion and you infuse it all with a great wry sensibility. This is a seriously God-given gift. You really are amazing. - Josh Greenberg, writer/producer

TOoooootally out of context and probably doesn't really mean this coolness but I adore him anyway:

For that metaphor alone, you should get an automatic staffing gig.- John Rogers, Showrunner, Leverage

I'm not on the hunt for winning your heart, because frankly I'm spoken for. That said...I'd take a "chaste good night kiss"from you over a night partying at the Playboy Mansion.Any guy who wouldn't isn't worth your time. And a quick PS from the Catwoman discussion and again pardon my language: Fuck Angelina Jolie! You're the real deal.- Marty "Awesome" Nozz, comic writer

I was having a difficult and frustrating morning... and you just blew all the bad stuff away! Thanks - that was perfect!- Jen Fallon, My charming Prague guide, and friend since I was four.

You, my darling, are a writer. Bolded. You painted such a gorgeous picture, it brought tears to my eyes. I am so happy for you that you could have that experience. And fishies are fishies. When they happen, what else can you do? - Amanda, longtime reader

Right Amanda??!? What else could I do?? I'd waited to kiss someone I cared about for over a year...

LOOKING FOR AN EXCEPTIONAL HUMAN BEING: Big-hearted adventurer needs a fun partner in crime to see the world...

MY PERSONAL AD: Waiting for my king to find me...I'm ready to love someone who loves me back. I'm ready to wake up in the morning next to that person, make him my best friend, and have fun with him for the rest of my life! :)

Not sure at all about making kids with him (I'd need a lot of help from him and money to do this without losing myself); do want to make art, a warm loving commitment, and see as many countries as possible. Have to test all those local sinful dishes and see if being held in his strong arms feels different in each time zone!

And yes, I still haven't pole danced or lap danced for my man, and can't freaking wait to!

Lis is a talented writer whose sense of humor lightens even the darkest situation. She does effortlessly what we all strive to do: create a truly honest blog. And those breasts! Yowza!- Todd A, authorBarry's Cherries

God bless us every one. And your womanly curves too...I'm not sure if it's because I'm "deep" and feel connected to you via your blog, or because I'm shallow and think you look hot.Or maybe both.- Chris, reader

This is the best blog entry I've ever read -- it's so honest and spontaneousous!...You come across as sooo happy that it's quite contagious and it does come through quite authentically."- Grace, blog reader

(Re: Scarlet Witch and "Amazon Women on the Moon") I knew I loved you for a reason.- Kevin Church, comic book writer

All I have to say is I love what you've done here. The glimpses into your life are so moving and charming, I just wanted to express that to you. I admire your tenactiy, yourbravery in everything you've experienced and all that you do. I am a fellow struggling screenwriter...Keep writing. - The American Knight, comic & screenwriter

Love your blog...it's been a more-than-worthwhile read. Sometimes you make me laugh, sometimes you kick up old emotions about going through a very similar parental thing afew years back, and sometimes you just leave me reflective overall, but it's always a neat stop along the information superhighway.- Mark Waid, comic legend. Really. Look him up, bitch.

I think you are great. I cry when I describe how PISTOLERAS is going to change the world.- Colleen Foy, actress, THERE WILL BE BLOOD

You're not man-hating fascists. You're man-hating libertarians with a strong belief in the social contract. And for that, I will fall willingly under your spell when you rule theEarth under Pax Gynecologia. Damn, being a wingnut is hard ... - John Rogers, Showrunner Leverage

Thanks for giving voice to this underdog ... Congratulations on your amazing site -- from the deepest emotions to the pop culture that cheers us up. I just noticed you mentioningthe Scarlet Witch and the Vision and am having flashbacks ...- Andrew Jackson, writer/director of The Discontents

(Re: poetry) Very touching words, so touching it saddened me with emotions of which left a cold shiver running down my spine. - Jake, reader

Enjoyed browsing your blog today...You have an impressive resume. I look forward to browsing your site for news and inspiration as I try my hand at developing some screenplays this year.- John Parbst, Professor of English

The more we talk, the more I think I should just check your recommendations for stuff I miss in theatres on a regular basis. Our similar sensibilities frighten the bejeesus out of me.- Mark Melo, Lawyer/film buff

Innovative, sassy and flexible are the qualities both Lis and her new Mykita Heather (glasses) posses. Substance and style all wrapped in one lovely be-spectacled package.- Julia Gogosha, eyewear stylist to the stars

Kid Sis in Hollywood was interesting, well written and had a great community feel to it.- Otis Frampton, writer/comic artist Oddly Normal

Looks like "The Commune" is going 2 be great. Read your blog. With your smile, I can not believe you are a rabble-rouser. Congrats on awards.- Dave Szymusiak, film producer

Got to read your script (PISTOLERAS) and the one thing that stood out for me is that it's just a lot of fun. Your style is very engaging. I kept thinking in the back of mind - DEATHPROOF. Your film seems to have all the right ingredients.You just need to attach some of the hottest film/TV gals in the biz and you got yourself a movie...- Sam Feur, producer, Sixth Sense Productions

Oh, Kid Sis, you're so seriously seriously cool...I've been following your blog and your mom's for months now. I have tremendous admiration for all of you,especially for your all's willingness to be so open about what's going on. Thank you all for that - it's a very, very important thing you all are doing.- Cookie

You want to be Wonder Woman and be able to catch your mother before she falls and lift her over your head if you have to. We all wish we had the power to save the ones we love from pain and jeopardy, but we aren't superheroes.We're just doing the best we can...One of the most enlightening things I've discovered from your blog and from the comic, is that families dealing with cancer still have to deal with being a family and all the family dynamics that were there before the cancer...But it's comforting to know that every-day human beings can keep on going.- Dave Anaxagoras, screenwriter, scribosphere original

We are huge fans of Kid Sis In Hollywood and would greatly appreciate your opinions on our play, our work.- Post Fact Productions

I wish you and mom all the best in getting through this. I don't think I've ever felt as strongly about two people I've never even met...The bravery your family has shown throughout the difficulties you've been through has astounded me. - Patrick

It's inspiring to me to read your posts of the life you have down in L.A. School, writing, partying and full time caregiver. Even when we worked together, you've always pulled more then your fair share of the burden. I think in most people's eyes you are that superhero who fights not to save herself, but everyone else in the city. So for everyone who needs your help; keep up the good fight!- iCustomer

Wow, that is really scary. I am really afraid of my grandma having problems like this. My mom is in a similar situation and even moved 2 1/2 hours into the middle of nowhere so that she could take care of my grandmother who was diagnosed last year. I can only imagine how much of a struggle it is seeing as you are much younger than my mother and are just starting to find your own path. I wish you luck in finding a workable balance between thetwo.- Shan'chelle, RIP

"I've been following your blog for just under a year now. It's great. Can't wait to read your further adventures...- Paul Zeidman, news producer/announcer

Why the name? I was browsing the San Diego Reader - the weekly arts/entertainment/happenings newsprint book - and was grabbed by the cover one week. It was a 60 panel-or-so preview of a new comic called Mom's Cancer. This story describes the trials that a family of four went through when their matriarch developed cancer after a long history of smoking.- SD ReaderMan

Do you know how much I enjoy reading your blog? Can't even tell you! It's wonderful. Your honesty is wonderful. Your stories are wonderful...

It's not like you haven't had offers recently -- men doggedly pursuing you like you was a open can o' puppy chow, grrl -- but I think you've been right to go it alone until you're really ready to look around. If you think about it (glass half full),you've made a *choice* to take some time off the dating game so that you could focus on your family and your blossoming new career. And then you'll be ready when you meet the right person. I think it's brave.- NN

Just wanted you to know your Calliope stories have touchedme. What a beautiful transition you arranged for her...Liz, I'm so honored to be mentioned in a KidSis post! I've now read your archives and it's great to be caught up. I feel like I know you, somehow.- Melody

It's amazing what you have been up to these past couple of years. The blog page, the comic, the hero dog, the new websites, the screenplay, the book. Wow! I think it's wonderful what you are doing. Very impressive. Yourpassion has lead you far. Your whole family!! It's truly wonderful.- Joe Towne, Actor/Filmmaker

Wait, are you me, in some parallel universe? Because I can't believe there's someone else out there whose dated THAT GUY. (And grown up with THAT PARENT, when it comes right down to it. Anyway.)

I guess if I have to have these issues, at least I can be thankful they're similar enough to yours that I can read the insights on your blog, and save a little cash on therapy.- Naomi, reader and spec screenwriter

You have a really good blog. I wish I could write as well as you do. - Rhino

I think you add something very valuable to Mom's story; and I also very much like reading Sis's own storyAre you doing something valuable? Yes. The comments are the proof of that.- Ronnie

The only time in my life I have ever lit a candle for someone was when I lit one right after 9-11, standing on my roof with my neighbors in NYC. I will light one now for you and your family.- Nicholas J Coleman

My wife is a breast cancer survivor and we've both attended meetings at the terrific Wellness Community in Redondo Beach (there's one also in Santa Monica and others worldwide). I can't wait until this book comes out, so I can give a copy to their library.- Neil, Citizen of the Month

Your blog is hysterical!...Now, I gotta ask ... pole dancing? Or should I say, pole falling? There MUST be more to that story!!!!! The artwork was CLASSIC! And I must say, I never thought I would meet a woman...who enjoyed comic books! My hero! What all do you read?-Steve H